tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74296146991761618462024-03-09T02:15:27.169+01:00La Cheshire Chat : Further Adventures in FranceA Single Mum's struggles, gaffes and triumphs dealing with the gaucherie that is French Bureaucracy.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-8605814471997813482011-06-13T23:45:00.003+02:002011-06-14T00:18:37.221+02:00Dukan week 16: sometimes life gets in the way, huh?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D1tMjGCXRTM/TfZ3I4AK7lI/AAAAAAAAAUU/5X9HQg_ugh0/s1600/Buttermilk+Pie+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D1tMjGCXRTM/TfZ3I4AK7lI/AAAAAAAAAUU/5X9HQg_ugh0/s400/Buttermilk+Pie+020.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div><br />
</div>My weight fluctuated like the stock market this week; up, down, up, down. But in the end, by Friday, I was at 81kg, so, another 500g released into the fat ether. The photo above and the two below were taken by my eldest daughter yesterday, Pentecostal Sunday, just after Church. I'm very happy my neck has slimmed down and my cheekbones are apparent now, and not hidden behind a wad of adipose tissue.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1372330746"></span><span id="goog_1372330747"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AFAg03WWHe4/TfaK2oDA8UI/AAAAAAAAAUk/ju3Hnd531vQ/s1600/Buttermilk+Pie+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AFAg03WWHe4/TfaK2oDA8UI/AAAAAAAAAUk/ju3Hnd531vQ/s400/Buttermilk+Pie+012.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I'm trying for demure, did I pull it off?</div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yf3jI9Z5P7g/TfZ3QyyU1eI/AAAAAAAAAUg/f5CUtDsds-k/s1600/Buttermilk+Pie+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yf3jI9Z5P7g/TfZ3QyyU1eI/AAAAAAAAAUg/f5CUtDsds-k/s400/Buttermilk+Pie+009.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: medium;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">While taking the photo, my daughter cleverly used part of the staircase to hide one hip and thigh... good girl!</div></div><div style="font-size: medium;"></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div>So, here's the proof:</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YAlJLniUYlQ/TfZ3Ot4EZwI/AAAAAAAAAUc/MAFs0psvxTE/s1600/Buttermilk+Pie+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YAlJLniUYlQ/TfZ3Ot4EZwI/AAAAAAAAAUc/MAFs0psvxTE/s400/Buttermilk+Pie+002.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">As of Friday 10 June 2011, 81kg. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>Oh happy moi!</div><div><br />
</div><div>I am having this incredible pleasure in trying on clothes, because THEY FIT ME. I know I need to firm up, I still jiggle like a bowl full of jelly (or Jell-O, for my American readers,) but it is still coming off, very very slowly, but then, the Grand Canyon wasn't created in a day, now was it? </div><div>Nor Rome. </div><div><strike>Nor the current financial mess the USA finds itself in.</strike> (Oops, no Politics, sorry.)</div><div><br />
</div><div>I said this to someone today, and I think it bears repeating here. What do you want to look like next year at this time? Do you want to be closer to your ideal weight or do you <i>really </i>want to be where you are right now? Heh, no judgements, it is after all, your life and YOU are the one that lives it, no one else.</div><div><br />
</div><div>IF you want to lose weight because you are depressed or miserable about your appearance, then simply just begin, NOW. I mean right now, not next Monday or next weekend or next month, or when you get paid, take the first step right this instant. Then the next instant, just continue. Keep stringing the moments together and YOU WILL get where you want to go. Yes, it takes willpower. Yes you will have to face up to WHY you overeat and gained weight in the first place and NO, that will not be easy, nor will it be comfortable nor will it be over in an instant.</div><blockquote><i>But time will pass, whether you want it to or not and </i><i>next year will be here before you know it, </i><i>so, you might as well be doing something constructive in the meantime.</i></blockquote>YOU just need to have confidence in YOU.<br />
<br />
Go on, do it. And then come back here and let me know how you are doing. I'll try to find a cheerleader outfit and some pom-poms and cheer you on.<br />
Well, ok, I'll do that AFTER I firm up the thighs....<br />
<br />
Hugs and quiches from Kitty xKittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-32733711728117470342011-06-05T23:49:00.000+02:002011-06-05T23:49:07.720+02:00Dukan week 15 - results!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DHHJnxBfLIU/Teun9CTuV-I/AAAAAAAAAT4/vbpeww2WhTU/s1600/low_carb_comic1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
<img border="0" height="286" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DHHJnxBfLIU/Teun9CTuV-I/AAAAAAAAAT4/vbpeww2WhTU/s400/low_carb_comic1.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Carbs are what slap me down, big time, every time. I can easily inhale an entire warm baguette, it hardly touches the sides, a croissant is nothing but net. Seriously.<br />
<br />
By why eat it if I don't even taste and enjoy it? Yeah, why indeed. So I just try my hardest to avoid it.<br />
<br />
I've had good days of walking, like the other day down the canal with the girls and a close friend and her Kiki dog. Then on other days, I'll just hobble around the house, barely able to put weight on my foot the tendon is so sore and painful I've even taken to using the crutches, occasionally. There just seems no rhyme or reason to it, one day ouch, the other, no big deal. So swings and roundabouts, I guess. Just a few more days and I see the Specialist in Saint Brieuc and find out my options. (Hopefully.)<br />
<br />
I worked hard to keep carbs and fat down so some weight would shift. So, even though the walking was spotty, I did get the results I wanted:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NWFmeEvRsAc/TeusFoafnfI/AAAAAAAAAT8/F7jANIa5dzg/s1600/Canal+walk+3+june+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NWFmeEvRsAc/TeusFoafnfI/AAAAAAAAAT8/F7jANIa5dzg/s400/Canal+walk+3+june+006.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
81.5kg! I'm only a week or so from breaking through the 80kg barrier!<br />
<br />
Pat on the back for that.<br />
<br />
OK, now... let's discuss other issues, shall we? The next post I'm going to talk about what happens when you lose a LOT of weight. And what I plan on doing about that.<br />
<br />
You will want to skip it if photos of a 50-something flabby woman might shock or scare you. :)<br />
<br />
Hugs and quiches from Kitty.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-28497222413034119302011-06-01T17:36:00.000+02:002011-06-05T17:38:50.462+02:00Dukan week, uh, let's call it week 14<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WCS0NveDdL0/Teug-bj9UmI/AAAAAAAAAT0/NyP13IouPhU/s1600/swimsuit+comic.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WCS0NveDdL0/Teug-bj9UmI/AAAAAAAAAT0/NyP13IouPhU/s640/swimsuit+comic.gif" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So I thought I'd go see what my BMI would be if I lost a silly amount of weight, went down to what I was in my 20's. Say, something ridiculous like... <i>60kg</i>. Hahaha.<br />
<br />
Height: 1.64 meters<br />
Weight: 60 kilograms<br />
<br />
Your BMI is <b>22.3</b>, indicating your weight is in the <b>Normal</b> category for adults of your height.<br />
For your height, a normal weight range would be from <b>49.8 </b>to<b> 67 kilograms</b>.<br />
<br />
<b><i>NORMAL??? </i></b><br />
<br />
Wow. Well, darn.<br />
<br />
OK, so a bit more to go, you could say.<br />
<br />
Here is a recipe:<br />
<br />
Kitty's Quick & Cheap Tomato Soup for Cruise.<br />
Makes one litre / 4 servings.<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
500 g Sieved Tomato Passata or Tomato Purée<br />
2 tbsp Garlic Powder or dried garlic<br />
1 tbsp Oregano, Dried<br />
1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper<br />
1 Chicken Bouillon Cube<br />
500 ml Hot Water<br />
<br />
Directions<br />
Place hot water and tomato passata into a medium saucepan. Crumble in the bouillon cube and oregano. Sprinkle over the dried garlic and the crushed red pepper to taste. Bring all ingredients to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the garlic time to absorb water and soften. Eat!<br />
I also grate Parmesan over this using a Microplane, it adds minimal calories and fat but maximum taste!<br />
<br />
Serving size 250 ml /approx 1 US cup<br />
Total Fat 1.12g<br />
Saturated Fat 0.28g<br />
Cholesterol 0mg<br />
Sodium 640.56mg (depending upon the stock cube and the tomato passata/purée)<br />
Total Carbohydrate 10.15g<br />
Dietary Fiber 0.97g<br />
Sugars 1.58g<br />
Protein 3.16g<br />
<br />
Hugs and quiches from KittyKittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-42824612190085939842011-05-29T20:09:00.000+02:002011-05-29T20:09:44.819+02:00The Rapture, or, Throwing a party and the Guest of Honour fails to appear.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N7aAWOIoyx0/TeKEiHdWTfI/AAAAAAAAATo/VPGFPem95GI/s1600/248422_2069325015309_1310360968_32532216_3186694_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N7aAWOIoyx0/TeKEiHdWTfI/AAAAAAAAATo/VPGFPem95GI/s400/248422_2069325015309_1310360968_32532216_3186694_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Yes, very VERY awkward, at least for the dozens or more who actually quit their jobs, spent all their money and otherwise burned their bridges.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ktWA5KLHn14/TeKAKYftAJI/AAAAAAAAATQ/QS9FsvYqh0g/s1600/why+says+jesus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ktWA5KLHn14/TeKAKYftAJI/AAAAAAAAATQ/QS9FsvYqh0g/s320/why+says+jesus.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><br />
OK, Jesus, but you DID say...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7bVSJK6mCLk/TeKALLgIbhI/AAAAAAAAATU/3q8Z25yaHss/s1600/brb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7bVSJK6mCLk/TeKALLgIbhI/AAAAAAAAATU/3q8Z25yaHss/s320/brb.jpg" width="226" /></a></div><br />
Folks, if some Yahoo who is spouting stuff he couldn't possibly know himself ALSO has a 'Donate' button on their website, well, it's rather some kinda clue, now isn't it?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffds2YxNeIU/TeKAjwjLaYI/AAAAAAAAATg/7CXrf2C4PQo/s1600/Rapture+cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffds2YxNeIU/TeKAjwjLaYI/AAAAAAAAATg/7CXrf2C4PQo/s400/Rapture+cupcakes.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but, I'm still here! A week later and still not a thing has occurred.<br />
Actually, The Rapture happened but none of us were deemed worthy of being called. You might have found one of these on your front door, like I did:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hFLiDd8Ocqk/TeKEkDfSp_I/AAAAAAAAATs/YhCJCeMkyWY/s1600/243037_10150260140391271_691716270_9241557_7607480_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hFLiDd8Ocqk/TeKEkDfSp_I/AAAAAAAAATs/YhCJCeMkyWY/s640/243037_10150260140391271_691716270_9241557_7607480_o.jpg" width="464" /></a></div><br />
I DID think about it long and hard, what if something does happen? Hmm. I decided that I'd choose to stay here on Earth. I could be a lot of help to those left behind plus some of my loved ones and dear friends most certainly would not be going anywhere. Plus, what use would I be in Heaven? No, if it's OK with God, Jesus and whomever else decides these things, leave me on Earth to help those in need. Heaven can wait, so to speak. I have Eternity.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, I suppose if I'm going to end up in Hell, all the Texans and I can get together with my friends from the Desert and install air-conditioning.<br />
<br />
So, the Fundies have now decided WHY there are no more dinosaurs here on Earth. No, it was NOT a gigantic comet that hit the Earth or any of that scientific nonsense, nope...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wqzA6Ft1wWY/TeKAkXpllRI/AAAAAAAAATk/f30JHKFELmk/s1600/memes-velocirapture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wqzA6Ft1wWY/TeKAkXpllRI/AAAAAAAAATk/f30JHKFELmk/s320/memes-velocirapture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Now doesn't that just make a LOT more sense?<br />
<br />
I hope this generated a giggle, that's why I posted on this Fête des Mères. Now I shall leave you with a lovely song that has some lush artwork/animation. Simply beautiful.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0yPMdWxSxUg?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Green grass... yes, and I'm thinking the soft green spring wheat..<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoy the rest of your weekend, and for me, in my mind I'm sailing into the sunset...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-42hjO9uEWq8/TeKLCyB3dEI/AAAAAAAAATw/CuJ-Z_JtnBE/s1600/sunset_sailing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-42hjO9uEWq8/TeKLCyB3dEI/AAAAAAAAATw/CuJ-Z_JtnBE/s400/sunset_sailing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Warm regards and calm winds from Kitty.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-64382613171028981822011-05-27T17:12:00.005+02:002011-05-27T18:33:26.021+02:00Friday the Thirteenth and Dukan Week 13 (Take Three...)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WixAsxHnuqA/Td-rLA6YrzI/AAAAAAAAATI/pMiv8fhEezI/s1600/Friday+the+13th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WixAsxHnuqA/Td-rLA6YrzI/AAAAAAAAATI/pMiv8fhEezI/s400/Friday+the+13th.jpg" width="386" /></a></div>You have no idea how many times I tried to write this post and failed.<br />
<br />
First, it was Blogger. I couldn't even access the site for all of Friday and then on and off over that weekend.<br />
Then, my guests arrived that stayed here for a week. I couldn't really lounge around tapping away on my Blog all day, even though they stayed next door most of the time. I still had two to seven children running around that needed goûters and hot cocoa making and plasters applying.<br />
Then I found out that, due to my ongoing issues with my leg, I can't get a medical certificate allowing me to continue practising épee fencing. I'd started it up again, I am REALLY good at it and it is a fearsome workout. But I have to wait until my leg is 'fixed'.<br />
THEN I fell as I was taking a basket of laundry up the stairs and severely pulled my left Achilles tendon. I didn't actually snap it, like I did to the right one in 2009, but it was enough that I haven't been able to manage a walk until yesterday.<br />
Then I got an x-ray of said legs done, to see why I am having these ongoing pain issues and found the bone spurs on the bottom of my heels have grown back. I look like some kind of fighting chicken. I'm seeing a specialist in Saint Brieuc in a couple weeks to see if I need an operation.<br />
Then I spoke to a very old and dear girlfriend and found out some things about one of my ex-husbands. Well... that kinda was the straw in the ointment and the cookie crumbled for me. It's harsh to find out stuff about oneself, about someone who you 'thought' had at one point held a least a tiny shred of affection (but didn't) and I feel like such a fool. I also guess I know how Diana must have felt when she realised what was going on between Chuck and Cammy.<br />
But I've accepted it, I've worked through it, I've decided it is part of my past and I refuse to think about what was (or was not.) I've now thrown off the blanket of depression and I'm back in the sunshine again.<br />
These above are what I'll call "<i><b>rationalisations</b></i>" for not posting on my Blog about my weight.<br />
Banging on about accountability doesn't mean diddlily squat if I don't follow through, even if it is just for myself, so, I apologise to myself and anyone else interested. And I forgive myself and hope you'll do the same.<br />
<br />
Even though I was ignoring the Blog, I still kept up with what I've been eating on the <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/">Livestrong site</a>. (And if anyone cares about what I actually eat on this regime, my Food Diary is public.) I do what I guess is called 'Emotional Eating'. I might have been unhappy as all get out but those warm, homemade Double Chocolate Chocolate Chip Toasted Pecan cookies sure as hell helped. Especially when dunked into that enormous glass of Cognac. (Which is actually in reserve for my Christmas Fruitcakes, but I digress.)<br />
<br />
Did falling off the wagon and breaking my regime REALLY help? No. It gave me the sugar high from Hell and I woke up with a massive hangover the next day. Plus I ended up putting weight right back on, weight I've been fighting to take off and KEEP off! Bloody wol me, that's for sure.<br />
<br />
So, with yet another burst of renewed resolve, I began again.<br />
<br />
When our friend Kate died, her sister gave me all of her clothes and many of her personal effects to give to Charity or use ourselves. I took about a hundred books down to the AIKB library, about 10 black plastic bags full of clothing down to Secours Catholique (they were delighted because it was all really nice and new, better women's clothing.) But I decided to keep ahold of her shoes and a lot of her 'casual' clothing. It was too small for me but I figured the girls would get 'play clothes' use out of it (and they have.)<br />
<br />
Well, in that mass of shoes (30 pairs!) was a pair of MBT trainers. My older daughter wore them one day and said that I should try them. This makes no sense to me, I had tried them on four years ago and it was like Cinderella's Ugly Stepsister and the Glass Slipper, no way José. But, just two days ago, I tried them on again and the left one fit perfect, the right one was a bit snug but ok with thin socks. My FEET have shrunk?<br />
<br />
The reason I say anything is because I can walk in these shoes and the pain is reduced probably 75%. I don't NEED to limp. A couple of paracetamol and it's ok. Of course when I take the shoes OFF, then my tendon screams bloody revenge, but, while walking it is lulled into a false sense of security, that's ok by me!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egLLC3CU6ao/Td-4e3ehbuI/AAAAAAAAATM/2dBCq708jmQ/s1600/scales+28+May.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egLLC3CU6ao/Td-4e3ehbuI/AAAAAAAAATM/2dBCq708jmQ/s400/scales+28+May.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>This is from this morning and yes... that is the heavy side of 84kg.<br />
<br />
I'm not giving up. I did slow down, I did backslide but I'm still here. That is what is important to me.<br />
<br />
I read a fabulous quote from a woman who basically had her stomach removed so she could lose weight.<br />
<blockquote style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">You can't continue the same behaviour</i></b></span></span></blockquote><div style="text-align: center;"> <b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #351c75; font-size: large;">and expect a different result.</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #351c75; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i></b></div>That applies to so many, many situations in my life. I'm in charge of me. It's me that needs to change if I'm not content with my situation, I can't expect the world around me to do so. Evolution just ain't that quick. And I have to keep telling myself this fact over and over. I'm hoping one day it will precede all my actions, even possibly one day it will even precede my thoughts.<br />
<br />
I have to keep trying to improve. I'm still a work in progress, yes. And please God may it be <i>many</i> years before the final touches have been applied; I still have a long way to go. And I know it.<br />
<br />
Because... I might not measure up to some others, but, I am still me. I am still a valid human being. I have worth. And there's only ONE unique, frustrating, complicated and sometimes silly moi.<br />
<br />
And *I* am the one with that Double Chocolate Chocolate Chip Toasted Pecan cookie recipe.<br />
So there!<br />
<br />
I wish you a fabulous, sun-drenched and glorious weekend! I'll be back very soon with something completely random and rather nonsensical but fun! :D<br />
<br />
Warm regards, KittyKittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-69640102318787258852011-05-16T17:28:00.001+02:002011-05-17T18:01:25.624+02:00Uh, yeah.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LxKaDsbqBkc/TdFCW-2AmEI/AAAAAAAAATA/qgt-eHVcYXk/s1600/love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LxKaDsbqBkc/TdFCW-2AmEI/AAAAAAAAATA/qgt-eHVcYXk/s400/love.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Sorry about this, but I've fallen into a slight pit of depression. After I figure how to climb back out, regular service will be resumed.<br />
Kind regards, KittyKittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-55205513469981832102011-05-07T20:00:00.001+02:002011-05-07T20:17:35.367+02:00Moments of Joy and Dukan week 11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZODvpFtmdD8/TcVHw70npqI/AAAAAAAAASs/ownAUz_GNcA/s1600/chickenhallucination.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZODvpFtmdD8/TcVHw70npqI/AAAAAAAAASs/ownAUz_GNcA/s400/chickenhallucination.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I love Savage Chickens.... I posted this because I use imagination A LOT. I have these ongoing conversations, in my mind, with important people in my life, people I no longer have contact with. Like my Mother, my Father, people from my past.<br />
I also have this great parallel world I inhabit with The Man I Love. I don't spend my entire life there, but it helps me when I'm feeling vulnerable. I can imagine his strong arms around me, I can bury my face into his chest and feel safe. And loved.<br />
<br />
Then I return to reality and face what I need to face. A bit stronger. Not quite so alone.<br />
<br />
How was your week?<br />
<br />
Mine just flew by. I had a houseful of both girls' school friends running about, chattering in French, playing hide & seek or 'cache-cache', creating 'forts, dens and cabins' and munching on my proffered baked goodies while drinking big mugs of hot chocolate. It was great, I really loved it. Everyone was happy and the sound of laughter rang through the place all week. Brilliant.<br />
<br />
I decided to allow my Sour Cream Streusel Coffeecake recipe to have an affair with my Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe and they created a Cupcake/Muffin Love Child. The smell was intoxicating coming straight out of the oven. The top had caramelised into this buttery caramel crust. I tried it. It was.... unbelievable... so... I ended up eating three more. And two more today. Which just proves I can't be trusted alone in a kitchen with my own baked goods.<br />
<br />
No... now that you've asked, they aren't in the LEAST Dukan friendly. I still tracked them on my Livestrong My Plate thing. Then skipped dinner. And took a very long walk. <a href="http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/slideshow-build-a-better-butt?ecd=wnl_skin_050411">And did a LOT of these 'Butt Busting' exercises.</a><br />
<br />
I'm not posting the recipe because you'll hate me. Plus, a woman has to have SOME secrets, you know....<br />
<br />
(If you know me in real life, and ask nicely, I'll bake some for you. But you have to come pick them up.)<br />
<br />
Today's quote is really good, so, I want to share it with you:<br />
<blockquote><i>"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear." </i>- Nelson Mandela</blockquote>I still have many, many fears. The fear that I will die alone, forgotten, in poverty. The fear that I won't be able to provide for my children. The fear that I will fail. The fear that I'll never be forgiven for mistakes I've made. And probably the worst fear of all: the fear that my best just isn't good enough.<br />
<br />
I live with these fears. They can never control me, but, they still sneak out from time to time and torment me. But by naming them, I take away some of their control and power over me. My fears can never stop me from laughing, can never stop me from enjoying my now, my present. I know they'll still be around tomorrow, I know I can never completely get rid of them all. But, that's OK with me. I can laugh at myself. Laughter is a very powerful weapon in my arsenal.<br />
<br />
The fear I will always be fat, obese, ugly, unhealthy and un-sexy is gone. My silhouette is normal, now. Even though the weight loss has slowed down considerably, it is still happening. I look OK without clothes, I don't shudder looking at myself in a mirror. Yes, I am super-duper flabby; you don't go from a lifetime high of over 21 stones down to under 13 without looking like a deflated blimp, this is true. I know I need to focus on toning up, but that's going to be a <b>very</b> long and ongoing process. I have lots of muscles that have been asleep for <i>years</i>. So, I'm starting gradually.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9y1cqvCLSr0/TcWEF3CR3MI/AAAAAAAAAS0/0VT1QXOZD2c/s1600/Garden+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9y1cqvCLSr0/TcWEF3CR3MI/AAAAAAAAAS0/0VT1QXOZD2c/s400/Garden+012.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XwBcdZga4z8/TcWDqQp2pDI/AAAAAAAAASw/zL-YgtuLbe8/s1600/Garden+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>So, 82kg. A bit more released into the fat ether which I don't need to have return again. That makes 16kg / 2 1/2 stones / 35 pounds total reduction in the last 11 weeks. I'm really pleased with that. Add to it the fact I feel fantastic!!! Stepping on the scales yesterday was a moment of joy. Because even though I fluffed up, a bit, and made stupid food choices, I was able to correct it by extra exercise and knowing I haven't failed at my regime, not whatsoever. I make mistakes, I forgive myself, I make amends and carry on. The sun rises in the morning, tomorrow is another chance and another day. A brand new day. Perfect seque for some Sting, eh?<br />
<br />
<table style="border-bottom: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #585858; color: #444444; font: bold 11px verdana; text-align: left; width: 470px;"><tbody>
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<div style="background-color: white; border-top: none; border: 1px solid #555555; font: normal 11px tahoma; height: 17px; text-align: center; width: 468px;"><a href="http://www.wiredseek.com/ringtones/?id=wsong" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.songarea.com/images/songarea/rtone.gif" style="border: 0; float: left; margin: 0 1 0 1;" /></a><a href="http://www.songarea.com/music-codes/sting.html" style="color: #0066ff;" target="_blank"><b>sting songs</b></a> | <a href="http://www.videocure.com/" style="color: #0066ff;" target="_blank"><b>music videos</b></a> | <a href="http://www.lyricskid.com/" style="color: #0066ff;" target="_blank"><b>lyrics</b></a> </div><br />
I hope you have a fabulous week!<br />
Hugs and quiches from Kitty x<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IO8OI_ln0GA/TcWIsB7-7II/AAAAAAAAAS4/d-JjR-Sgimo/s1600/Belinda+1+apr+2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IO8OI_ln0GA/TcWIsB7-7II/AAAAAAAAAS4/d-JjR-Sgimo/s320/Belinda+1+apr+2011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-3231227940013395112011-04-29T13:48:00.000+02:002011-04-29T13:48:27.071+02:00Look on the Bright Side and Dukan week 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ui7T0WG0MLE/TbqWp_irrOI/AAAAAAAAASk/SHQPQMIkd-g/s1600/Spring+flowers+023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ui7T0WG0MLE/TbqWp_irrOI/AAAAAAAAASk/SHQPQMIkd-g/s320/Spring+flowers+023.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Enjoy your life.<br />
<br />
Because life is ephemeral.<br />
<br />
Just like these blooms captured around our garden, it will fade away.<br />
<br />
The cycle of birth, death and rebirth is fixed in the seasons and is a sure, steady reminder that nothing stays the same, the only real constant is change.<br />
<br />
Just remember: You get exactly what you settle for. <br />
<br />
If there is nothing we can do about change, then, might as well enjoy the ride, correct?<br />
<br />
<br />
The Springtime flowers, brief though they may be, are glorious.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3TJCqL-20bI/TbpxlcFDOZI/AAAAAAAAAR4/6hbzScU1PMs/s1600/Garden+Flowers+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3TJCqL-20bI/TbpxlcFDOZI/AAAAAAAAAR4/6hbzScU1PMs/s320/Garden+Flowers+015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eiHnGSE6_TM/Tbpxnwgh-iI/AAAAAAAAAR8/B8buF5B8F44/s1600/Garden+Flowers+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eiHnGSE6_TM/Tbpxnwgh-iI/AAAAAAAAAR8/B8buF5B8F44/s320/Garden+Flowers+016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DqBh4PlZB5w/TbpxqUDNNAI/AAAAAAAAASA/G8okTyqmIVI/s1600/Garden+Flowers+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DqBh4PlZB5w/TbpxqUDNNAI/AAAAAAAAASA/G8okTyqmIVI/s320/Garden+Flowers+017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Lz0C17BUX4/TbpxtnNQkZI/AAAAAAAAASE/h_TGrATxIdk/s1600/Garden+Flowers+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Lz0C17BUX4/TbpxtnNQkZI/AAAAAAAAASE/h_TGrATxIdk/s320/Garden+Flowers+021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DVQY-ApqibQ/Tbpxygy_-vI/AAAAAAAAASI/2kxogmnVnDc/s1600/Garden+Flowers+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DVQY-ApqibQ/Tbpxygy_-vI/AAAAAAAAASI/2kxogmnVnDc/s320/Garden+Flowers+022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-axoIsotJWtQ/Tbpx69v8I5I/AAAAAAAAASU/zyo8kyUyMVA/s1600/Garden+Flowers+025.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-axoIsotJWtQ/Tbpx69v8I5I/AAAAAAAAASU/zyo8kyUyMVA/s320/Garden+Flowers+025.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FchJuDMhFNc/TbqLitn3DGI/AAAAAAAAASg/rwhLUKqT5es/s1600/Garden+Flowers+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FchJuDMhFNc/TbqLitn3DGI/AAAAAAAAASg/rwhLUKqT5es/s320/Garden+Flowers+008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span id="goog_1651237320"></span><span id="goog_1651237321"></span><br />
<br />
Love, true love, however, is constantly changing, developing and undying and even if it burns down to just a small hidden flame, it is still there. It still exists.<br />
<br />
So love deeply, whatever or whomever you choose as you heart's desire. But give it all you have. It's one of the best things about being human, and being alive.<br />
<br />
<br />
When God was passing out Lives, why did I have to stand in the "Seriously Complicated, Mostly Unfulfilled, Often Stressful but Ultimately Character-Building" queue? I'm guessing I was busy reading a book and wasn't paying attention....<br />
<br />
I didn't post last Friday, I had a week before of seriously bad food choices, stress, complications and emotional eating. I could have blamed it on 'hitting a plateau', but, that's not honest. I went overboard on sugar and fat and carbohydrates and just didn't want to bother forcing myself to get my trainers on and go for a walk, and well, it showed. Nothing budged. So, nothing gained but the weight stayed the same, last week.<br />
<br />
THIS week, however, I saw improvement, real and right there on the scales.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xdRagfoNOzs/Tbpx9Q4pO5I/AAAAAAAAASY/lepV8CCguu8/s1600/Garden+Flowers+001.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xdRagfoNOzs/Tbpx9Q4pO5I/AAAAAAAAASY/lepV8CCguu8/s320/Garden+Flowers+001.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
THIS week I buckled down and started walking with a friend every evening for an hour. She is a little fireball, being Brazilian, and will walk for hours at a rapid rate if allowed. I have to make sure I am well warmed up and have taken Paracetamol before we meet up or I'm limping halfway through. Still, it's great exercise, I've lost another kilogram and my clothes are now seriously loose on me. Its fun, taking things out of boxes which I have not been able to wear since 2004-2005 and finding they not only fit well, but are in some cases actually no longer tight. Hurrah!<br />
<br />
In a few more kilos, I will be down to the lightest weight I have ever been here in France. I forget exactly how light I became, I'll have to go dig it out from my old Blog.<br />
<br />
The very biggest differences this time around are I have a handle on my depression, I no longer feel vulnerable and completely alone. I refuse to allow myself to be taken advantage of again. I know I face challenges, but, I have skills and methods to handle them now. My health is improving, I am well-ensconced in the way of life here in France and my daughters are having a joyous childhood. And, I like myself. I'm proud of what I've achieved. For once I can say 'I am happy in my skin!' These are things mere money cannot purchase.<br />
<br />
Plus... this time around... I have hope. I live in hope.<br />
<br />
Everything happens, and everything doesn't always have a reason for WHY it has happened, but, happen it will. Once I accepted that, life seemed a bit less mean. Life seems now to be just that: a life. I can do with it as I choose, it is all my doing, no one else's. I am making this journey alone, regardless of who is around me. I will enjoy this life to the fullest extent. I hope all of you will as well.<br />
<br />
It's your choice.<br />
<br />
<i><b>In Hope.</b></i> x<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i0veKX8I3Cw/Tbqktvcw1HI/AAAAAAAAASo/3uQFYToMYM0/s1600/Easter+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i0veKX8I3Cw/Tbqktvcw1HI/AAAAAAAAASo/3uQFYToMYM0/s320/Easter+010.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Have a great week, Kitty xKittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-62058055162802256202011-04-16T19:28:00.000+02:002011-04-16T19:28:39.473+02:00Good News at the end of week Eight on Dukan.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPlYmksQqek/TanNZKJjm4I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/k7GsKWDhZeg/s1600/savage+chickens+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="30" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPlYmksQqek/TanNZKJjm4I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/k7GsKWDhZeg/s400/savage+chickens+blog.jpg" width="382" /></a></div><br />
I've been ridiculously busy this past week with a plethora of different bits and pieces in my life, ends that needed tying up and off, little tasks that just had to get done. The Lion's Share has been accomplished, all the while sticking to my resolutions I made to myself earlier in the year. So, I feel slightly successful. Not Hilary climbing Everest successful, but more like 'keeping nutritious meals on the table while the house stays clean & tidy and the girls don't argue' successful. Far better than some silly mountain anytime.<br />
<br />
I had the results of my blood tests come back and I discussed them with my doctor. Based partially on the diet I am following, partially on the (now) daily exercise I do, partially upon the weight loss and probably partially upon just dumb luck; my diabetes appears to be in complete remission. So I have been taken completely off the diabetes drug Metformin I was taking. This is exciting and thrilling for me because, as long as I stick to what I'm doing, I'll be one of many who have managed to conquer Type 2 diabetes. I'll have more tests done in the summer to make sure I'm still on track, but, heh, I have to tell you - I feel like a different person. Diabetes can really cause such an impact upon so many areas of your life: moods, rationality, vision, nerves, increased chance of strokes, heart and kidney disease; the list goes on and on. So often, people show no symptoms at all until damage has been done. I'm so lucky mine was caught early and treated.<br />
<br />
The next couple paragraphs of this might not interest you unless you yourself are diabetic or if you have a family member or close friend who suffers from this affliction.<br />
<br />
The blood test I had in the Autumn showed my HbA1c Glycated hemoglobin was within the normal range of 4.0% - 6.0%. Mine was 5.4% so I went from two Metformin a day down to one a day. January's test was 5.3%, so the Metformin was cut in half again, one pill every other day. Now this latest test has a result of 5.2%, still very much normal so that is why the diabetes medication has been dropped completely.<br />
<br />
My blood pressure is good at 130/70 and my triglyceride levels have fallen from 1.41 g/l to 1.02 g/l. I still need to bring down my HDL cholesterol, so I've decided to try achieving this by cutting down on the beef I eat. Steak haché is so quick, easy and delicious, but, I've been buying the budget brand and the saturated fat level is around 15%. I need to cut back until I can afford to buy the 5% fat beef. I think if I can do this it should impact the HDL. I'm not getting saturated fat from any other source in my diet.<br />
<br />
So, I'd say after two months on the Dukan Regime, my health has improved, my energy levels are really good, I don't feel hungry or 'snacky' during the day and the weight keeps coming off! My youngest daughter remarked yesterday, as I came down the stairs, "Mummy! Oh! That's you? I saw your legs and 'taille' coming down and I thought you were Mwanda!" Mwanda is her nickname for her 13 year-old sister. No, I have not slimmed down to pre-pubescent, but I don't need to wear baggy sweatpants and men's t-shirts any longer and I guess both girls are quite astonished at my weight loss progress. Their encouragement keeps me going. I want my family to be proud of me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_nMFbaGpPfo/Tam7czzbsPI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/dniUiUp83ig/s1600/Spring+flowers+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="31" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_nMFbaGpPfo/Tam7czzbsPI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/dniUiUp83ig/s400/Spring+flowers+016.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
In the last two months on the Dukan Regime, I've lost 13kg/ 2 stones/ 28 pounds.<br />
<br />
Apparently it takes six weeks of doing something on a daily basis to make it into a habit. I'd say I've now got the walking down to a 'habit' and certainly the method of eating comes without a second thought. Yes, I DO cheat, now and again, but I always account for it in my daily food diary and either plan for the 'cheat' by eating less before or eating less afterwards. Or by doing a lot of physical activity to make up for it.<br />
<br />
I have finally sorted out CPAM, my medical coverage, so, this is why I was able to do the flurry of tests. The kinésithérapeute finally was able to help with my left Achilles tendon so that is much better. Yes, I do have to take pain medication but at least I can walk with barely a limp, huge progress. <br />
<br />
I guess I am simply just <i>thankful </i>for so much right now. My children are all happy and doing well at work and at school. I feel calm, centred and happy to be living where I am. I do have moments of joy in my life. I have loved and been loved in my life with a fierce intensity. We are safe where we live and no longer feel a constant threat from unwanted persons impinging upon our life. I feel such gratitude towards the person and the situations that have brought us to where we are right now. <i>Thank you so very much</i>. Please accept my thanks on behalf of us all.<br />
<br />
I send out joy, hope, love and light to all. Have a wonderful week.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-1166007910265466522011-04-08T13:33:00.001+02:002011-04-11T09:19:45.533+02:00Dukan week Seven or Pardon My Apparent Lack of Creativity.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8DGQE1aRaD4/TZ7UGrnmfdI/AAAAAAAAAQs/0l0jj0ZvWxw/s1600/signs+of+spring.gif" imageanchor="1" linkindex="20" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8DGQE1aRaD4/TZ7UGrnmfdI/AAAAAAAAAQs/0l0jj0ZvWxw/s320/signs+of+spring.gif" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I mean what surer sign of Spring than a Frappuccino?<br />
<br />
No, just to reassure you, my town has not yet arrived in the 21st century by acquiring a $tarbucks, no. Do not fret. A petit noir is still 1.10€ - 1.20€, cafés still insist on boiling the milk past scalding temperature if you ask for a crème. Life is still normal here.<br />
<br />
My week on my regime has been fraught with ups and down, lots of downs, rather like my life right now. I stressed out mid-week and cracked open the Christmas Cake tin. This is the fruitcake I have which is still maturing from year BEFORE last, 2009. I unwrapped the buttercloth covering, still redolent of the heavy Bacardi soaking the cake had received, then gorged on a HUGE slice of the moist, fragrant love-stuff. (In case you are wondering, it was awesomely good, whoa.) Then I had a slab of marzipan, just to top off the carb fest. I do a nut topping on our family's Christmas cake, the girls aren't too fond of either Royal icing nor Fondant, let alone marzipan.<br />
<br />
I've spent a lot of time feeling really down in the dumps of late. I feel tossed about by the whims of circumstance like flotsam jettisoned into the Universe's emotional ether. Well, something like that but said better.<br />
<br />
So, not much progress because of cheating, a 'hormonal plateau' plus feeling too depressed to get out and walk 30 minutes twice a day. On a positive note: I haven't yet completely lost my sense of humour, I do attempt to look at my situation and find things to be amused about. I also know I am far better off than millions of other people. I try to count my blessings each day and be grateful for not yet having shuffle'd off this mortal coil. Slings and arrows, I've got 'em. Outrageous fortune: missing.<br />
<br />
So for the 'Money Shot' (a term which I did not know until last year when it was explained to me.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_TbP5-bX4Fo/TZ7sypfThfI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/Wem0zn3T2zo/s1600/scales.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="21" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_TbP5-bX4Fo/TZ7sypfThfI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/Wem0zn3T2zo/s320/scales.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I'm taking that at 87kg. Still reducing, just not in any kind of rapid sense. Still, the end result is what counts. My clothes fit better, the smaller stuff.<br />
<br />
My doctor says I've reduced a bit over 12kg since the last time he weighed me in his office. He has halved my heart medication. I have a blood test tomorrow to check on my cholesterol, iron and blood sugar, I should have the results sometime next week. That will let me know how this regime is impacting my health. I'm sure it's favourably since my blood pressure was down to 130/70.<br />
<br />
I'd really like to post something other than my weight updates. This must be mindbendingly boring for anyone who reads this. Sorry. I'll try to become inspired. It's just hard right now to express myself due to general ennui.<br />
<br />
Sending you all best wishes for a lovely weekend and week.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-39194954647049827432011-04-01T19:24:00.000+02:002011-04-01T19:24:19.023+02:00Spring Flowers and end of Dukan week Six<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AtwfIu0n1vs/TZX5XpCyKPI/AAAAAAAAAPs/lt0OX7TbiQ8/s1600/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+053.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="63" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AtwfIu0n1vs/TZX5XpCyKPI/AAAAAAAAAPs/lt0OX7TbiQ8/s400/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+053.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These are the lovely flowers planted in the town square, behind are the flower pyramid boxes in front of the Church.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AoD46I0W2z8/TZX8DH-_LRI/AAAAAAAAAPw/-y-eObZ_m50/s1600/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+031.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="64" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AoD46I0W2z8/TZX8DH-_LRI/AAAAAAAAAPw/-y-eObZ_m50/s640/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+031.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4MvtSM91BA/TZX8L5V5L4I/AAAAAAAAAQA/ihFKit5_iP0/s1600/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+028.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="65" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4MvtSM91BA/TZX8L5V5L4I/AAAAAAAAAQA/ihFKit5_iP0/s640/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+028.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>They lift my spirits every time I walk by them, so, at least twice a day on my walks. I always stop and smell the flowers. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Thl2sjh5AQ8/TZX8J0GBk0I/AAAAAAAAAP8/fTSNubzGxoY/s1600/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="66" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Thl2sjh5AQ8/TZX8J0GBk0I/AAAAAAAAAP8/fTSNubzGxoY/s640/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+015.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>My woodland walk gave me this lovely leaf the other night. A sweet thing to find for some precious memories I keep from that same spot. I adore Springtime, walking down this path, listening to birdsong, watching the season change, the leaves appearing on the trees. Each day I watch the blush of chartreuse green flush the trees away from the drab brown and grey of winter. It brings me great peace, this place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MiUZWdwQD6I/TZX8GsstWuI/AAAAAAAAAP0/WTcxTK4EUPM/s1600/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="67" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MiUZWdwQD6I/TZX8GsstWuI/AAAAAAAAAP0/WTcxTK4EUPM/s400/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+001.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>This is me, VERY early in the morning; My, don't I look chipper!? (Just keeping it real, folks!)<br />
Why am I smiling? The scales look pretty OK this week, that's why!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j4_BgJpHyXs/TZX-k9QmJLI/AAAAAAAAAQE/uFPZjJjXhjc/s1600/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+071.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="68" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j4_BgJpHyXs/TZX-k9QmJLI/AAAAAAAAAQE/uFPZjJjXhjc/s400/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+071.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
I'm down to 97.5kg. Only a shift of 500g down from last week, but, that's a pound, so, I'll take it!<br />
And, I've got the beginnings of my hourglass figure back. Only the beginnings, mind you, but, still. Small steps.<br />
<br />
Next week I'm not expecting a lot because, well, I'm out of cash to buy food for myself, I only have enough for the girls and Restos du Coeur finished last week, so, my diet will most likely suffer, a bit. But never mind, I know what I need to do to get back on track afterwards. The girls will always eat well and nutritiously, that's my main concern.<br />
<br />
CAF decided to cut my cash by 7/8ths. No idea why and no letter explaining the change but I just checked on the site and I've got less than 100€ coming on Tuesday. Heavens above, I just have to laugh, no use getting stressed as that doesn't help a thing. Assistance Sociale on Monday morning, obviously.<br />
<br />
Life in France.... It's always something, isn't it?Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-82222865701295895892011-03-27T14:38:00.001+02:002011-03-27T14:41:28.122+02:00Choices<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vl6nWLivi88/TY8uG8jxs5I/AAAAAAAAAPo/bQVOu5Io1d4/s1600/Choices_Mind_Map.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="405" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vl6nWLivi88/TY8uG8jxs5I/AAAAAAAAAPo/bQVOu5Io1d4/s400/Choices_Mind_Map.JPG" width="475" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Choices</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />
</span><br />
If I can’t do<br />
what I want to do<br />
then my job is to not<br />
do what I don’t want<br />
to do. <br />
It’s not the same thing<br />
but it’s the best I can<br />
do.<br />
<br />
<br />
If I can’t have<br />
what I want then<br />
my job is to want<br />
what I’ve got<br />
and be satisfied<br />
that at least there<br />
is something more<br />
to want.<br />
<br />
Since I can’t go<br />
where I need to go<br />
then I must go<br />
where the signs point<br />
though always understanding<br />
parallel movement<br />
isn’t lateral.<br />
<br />
When I can’t express<br />
what I really feel<br />
I practice feeling<br />
what I can express<br />
and none of it is equal<br />
I know<br />
but that’s why mankind<br />
alone among the animals<br />
learns to cry.<br />
<br />
Nikki GiovanniKittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-13190935909936526422011-03-25T22:10:00.001+01:002011-03-25T22:14:57.223+01:00Spring, Livestrong and Dukan week fiveSpring has arrived here in Côtes d'Armor in full force. Every weekend you can hear the mosquito sound hanging overhead as dozens of men get out the lawnmowers and attack the lawns fed by the extraordinary amount of water we've had over the winter. Daffodils, hyacinths and crocus are everywhere and I got a lovely surprise discovering some grape muscats growing just outside my kitchen door. Lovely.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Wpeq84Bx0Xw/TYzehXJIdfI/AAAAAAAAAOA/viMdhnHRN0M/s1600/Cats+%2526+Moon+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="33" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Wpeq84Bx0Xw/TYzehXJIdfI/AAAAAAAAAOA/viMdhnHRN0M/s400/Cats+%2526+Moon+042.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>I had no idea they were even there!<br />
<br />
The cats snooze in the sun...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_YndswSqZFM/TYzfR_6aj2I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/59EO9cmCeVM/s1600/Cats+%2526+Moon+023.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="34" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span id="goog_2092878437"></span><span id="goog_2092878438"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NYmam3cewFg/TYzwzgbTSRI/AAAAAAAAAOk/9PapKa_5POk/s1600/Cats+%2526+Moon+023.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="35" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NYmam3cewFg/TYzwzgbTSRI/AAAAAAAAAOk/9PapKa_5POk/s400/Cats+%2526+Moon+023.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
And nap happily most all the day... so they can chase marbles around on the wood floors all night.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gvR6cb9BJiU/TYzfQfa2BlI/AAAAAAAAAOM/-t4CTf5V3c4/s1600/Cats+%2526+Moon+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="36" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gvR6cb9BJiU/TYzfQfa2BlI/AAAAAAAAAOM/-t4CTf5V3c4/s400/Cats+%2526+Moon+022.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
But their cuteness makes up for the odd awakening at 4 am.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UI-EgNCsoPg/TYzyUKgB2kI/AAAAAAAAAOs/BPBN4zr6IJk/s1600/Cats+%2526+Moon+037.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="37" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UI-EgNCsoPg/TYzyUKgB2kI/AAAAAAAAAOs/BPBN4zr6IJk/s400/Cats+%2526+Moon+037.jpg" width="300" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Butterflies have appeared, flitting about, always a colourful but brief surprise so early in the year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lIHnl2fsyTA/TYz1ULu_OXI/AAAAAAAAAO8/8NO1e_loasY/s1600/Ladybirds+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="38" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lIHnl2fsyTA/TYz1ULu_OXI/AAAAAAAAAO8/8NO1e_loasY/s400/Ladybirds+016.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-P5lVWae79II/TYz1XH6sF-I/AAAAAAAAAPA/dq7NwYE1caU/s1600/Ladybirds+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="39" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-P5lVWae79II/TYz1XH6sF-I/AAAAAAAAAPA/dq7NwYE1caU/s400/Ladybirds+011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: small;">At first I ignored these berries, then my elder daughter pointed them out, "Look, Mum! Ladybirds!" And yes, yes they are, hundreds of them in the cypress bushes outside our local Maire. Not berries as I had originally thought.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: small;">The increased light, the sunshine and warmth, the new life bursting all around has lifted my spirits considerably. So even though I still have much to face ahead of me, I stay calm and focussed because I have peace and love in my home. That's what counts to me, most of all. The rest is just details, where the Devil resides.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have been using this site, <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/" linkindex="40">Livestrong</a>, to track everything that goes into my mouth, the water I drink plus the exercise I manage to accomplish </span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: small;">every day. I started using it way back on 12 September 2008, when I first began trying to get my weight back on track. If I count from then to today, I have lost a whopping 30kg/ 4 stone 10 pounds /66 lbs. But, in reality and for the purposes of this regime, I'm just counting what I'm losing on Dukan, and I saw a small improvement again this morning.</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lTJiEvBSYkw/TYz-lzjgjII/AAAAAAAAAPE/UxKJNOXxJL8/s1600/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="41" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lTJiEvBSYkw/TYz-lzjgjII/AAAAAAAAAPE/UxKJNOXxJL8/s400/Rhiannon+Kitten+%2526+scales+002.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Slow and steady does the trick for me. The progress would be more significant if I could only manage to get out and walk more often, but, it's just too painful unless I load up on analgesics. My Kinésithérapist has offered to let me go in during office hours and use the stationary bike in her office. I did that one day this week. Now I just have to 'man up' and go in more often!<br />
<br />
May I suggest you check out Livestrong if you too are in the process of becoming more healthy. It's a great resource and my regular commenters are welcome to friend me, I am LaCheshireChat there as well. My food diary is only open to people whom I have befriended, but on my public profile, you can look at the recipes I have posted.<br />
<br />
<br />
I wish you a lovely weekend and a great week!Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-1644921381871460062011-03-18T17:41:00.000+01:002011-03-18T17:41:24.688+01:00'Legal' Cioppino and Dukan Week Four<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pFKem7OklKo/TYOCMnfFbPI/AAAAAAAAAN4/KIzntpBTVvo/s1600/seafood-stew.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="33" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pFKem7OklKo/TYOCMnfFbPI/AAAAAAAAAN4/KIzntpBTVvo/s400/seafood-stew.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
One of the enjoyable things about starting any kind of eating routine, be it moving to a different country, health necessitated or being on a structured regime, such as this; is the challenge of adapting my 'Old Recipes' to my current way of eating. Well, <b><i>I</i></b> find it fun. Yes, I should probably get out more, but anyway...<br />
<br />
The following is my adaptation of one of my favourite dishes, Cioppino, which can be loosely described as a San Francisco-style Bouillabaisse. I always use an adaptation of an old Gourmet magazine recipe, but that uses much too much olive oil, so, I used an adaptation of <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/cioppino-recipe/index.html" linkindex="34">one I found on The Food Network by chef Giada De Laurentiis.</a> Also, just so you know, the above picture isn't mine, but one that most closely resembles what my Cioppino looks like. By the time I realised, last night, I should take a photo... it was mostly polished off. You don't want to look at dirty dishes or the remaining Tablespoon of my Cioppino!.<br />
<br />
In this recipe adaptation, I mainly just removed the oil, using instead vegetable stock for 'sautéeing' the vegetables and I replaced the clams, mussels and shellfish with frozen seafood cocktail mix. I did this because: it's what I had and because I need to cook something that won't break the bank. When I'm trying to impress, I go all out with a variety of fresh fish and fresh shellfish. However, please do feel free to add in fresh shellfish, mussels and clams, especially if you'd like the 'Wow' factor of the shells. Me? I didn't want to fiddle with shells and peeling prawns heads and carapaces from their delectable bodies, and frankly, I never <i>do </i>want that messy fuss, even in a restaurant; I just want to eat!<br />
<br />
<b><u>Cioppino </u></b><br />
Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis and adapted for The Dukan Diet Cruise Phase Veg+Protein day by Kitty<br />
<br />
Prep Time: 30 min - Cook Time: 1 hr 0 min<br />
Serves: 6 servings<br />
<br />
<u>Ingredients</u><br />
* 250 ml / 8 ounces / 1 cup reduced fat vegetable stock<br />
* 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced<br />
* 1 onion, chopped<br />
* 3 large shallots, chopped<br />
* 2 teaspoons sea salt<br />
* 4-8 large garlic cloves, finely chopped (You decide on amount, we happen to love garlic!)<br />
* 3/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper flakes, plus more to taste<br />
* 4 Tablespoons / 2 ounces / 1/4 cup tomato paste<br />
* 850 g / 28-ounce can diced tomatoes in juice<br />
* 350 ml / 12 ounces dry white wine (optional)<br />
* 1 1/4 litre / 40 ounces / 5 cups fish stock (I use Fumet de Poisson + hot water)<br />
* 1 bay leaf<br />
* 500 g / 1 pound bag frozen seafood cocktail mix (avoid the ones with Surimi, mine had prawns/shrimp, mussels and squid)<br />
* 250g / 1/2 pound fresh or frozen prawns/shrimp or another bag of seafood cocktail mix<br />
* 1 kg / 2 pounds assorted firm-fleshed fish fillets such as halibut or salmon, (I used salmon and Panga) cut into small bite-sized pieces<br />
* A handful of finely chopped or shredded fresh basil (optional)<br />
<br />
<u>Directions</u><br />
Heat half the stock in a very large pot over medium heat. Add the fennel, onion, shallots, garlic and salt and sauté until the onion is translucent, continuing stirring and adding more stock as needed to keep the vegetables from sticking. Add 3/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and stir in the tomato paste. Add tomatoes with their juices, wine (if using,) fish stock and bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer until the flavours blend, about 30 minutes. The fennel and garlic should be tender.<br />
<br />
Add the frozen seafood cocktail mix (and prawns/shrimp, if using frozen) to the cooking liquid. Cover and cook, until the liquid begins to simmer. Then add the fish (and prawns/shrimp if fresh) to the pot, simmering gently until the fish and shrimp are just cooked through, while stirring gently, about 5-7 minutes more. Any longer and the squid will go tough. Season the soup, to taste, with more salt and red pepper flakes.<br />
<br />
Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle each bowl with some basil, if using, and serve. This goes wonderfully with crusty baguette!<br />
(Note: To make this go further, add 500g / 1 pound of well-scrubbed small new potatoes when you add the bay leaf. Obviously this then changes the recipe away from the cruise phase!)<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">~~~~ </div><br />
Now I'll discuss my week. It was pretty crap, again. I have been 'cheating' and it showed up on the scales. What have I been cheating with? Glasses of Merlot? Tablets of Chocolat Noir 70%? Or did I flip out and eat an entire Chaussée aux Moines? Nope, I've been having 50g of All-Bran Fibre Plus every morning with Non-Fat milk. Big whoopty-cheat. I stepped on the scales this morning and decided to can that breakfast cereal malarky right away. It's not been as '<span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">efficacious</span></span>' as hoped and it has completely put this week's results in the crapper. (Or not, if truth be told, *ahem*)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lE8BCwTLRmo/TYNSL7B4yvI/AAAAAAAAANw/-eF3miYtLss/s1600/Cats+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="35" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lE8BCwTLRmo/TYNSL7B4yvI/AAAAAAAAANw/-eF3miYtLss/s400/Cats+010.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
If anything, I probably gained 500g / 1 pound or so.<br />
Ah well, just means I need to put out a bit more effort this week coming up.<br />
<br />
I found this site on the internet called <a href="http://www.bodyrock.tv/" linkindex="36">Bodyrock.tv</a> that is focussed on the Home Exercise movement. There are lots of short, intense videos that work all areas of your body, perfect for someone who wants to do a bit of exercise now and again through the day, and is stuck at home. I have to find something to do besides walking, I'm now barely managing 20 minutes at a time, and even if I go out twice a day, it's just not enough.<br />
<br />
Obviously my former exercise routine of throwing my weight around, jumping to conclusions and pushing my luck is no longer applicable nor effective.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xojs9nAA_oY/TYOK34T-HLI/AAAAAAAAAN8/cCgq37J8g5M/s1600/WeightLossCartoon1.gif" imageanchor="1" linkindex="37" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xojs9nAA_oY/TYOK34T-HLI/AAAAAAAAAN8/cCgq37J8g5M/s400/WeightLossCartoon1.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Have a great weekend and a fabulous week!Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-62954031917106444142011-03-17T14:07:00.000+01:002011-03-17T14:07:07.534+01:00A Saint Patrick's Irish Coffee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mUxwzB6wab0/TYH3Sgr5n7I/AAAAAAAAANo/0-zzQYs2gqw/s1600/st-patricks-savage-chickens.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="39" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mUxwzB6wab0/TYH3Sgr5n7I/AAAAAAAAANo/0-zzQYs2gqw/s400/st-patricks-savage-chickens.jpg" width="381" /></a></div>For those of you that celebrate the day, I wish you roads rising to meet you and the wind at your back and all that fun stuff. For those that do not, maybe you can be tempted to try this lovely recipe, which I learned when noght but a wee bairn at my Grandpappy's knee.<br />
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No I didn't, I learned it from a bartender in San Francisco, at the Buena Vista Café, the most famous place for Irish Coffees in America. At least it is if you believe their press.<br />
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The Buena Vista makes theirs according to the official recipe from Joe Sheridan, a bartender at Shannon Airport, who invented the drink: "Cream as rich as an Irish brogue, coffee as strong as a friendly hand, sugar as sweet as the tongue of a rogue, and whiskey as smooth as the wit of the land.'' <br />
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The Irish claim they invented whiskey -- the ancient Gaels called it "uisce beathe,'' the water of life. The Scots have a few choice words for the Irish over that matter.<br />
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Whiskey has always been something to fight over. Even now, it is not a good idea to serve Bushmill's, which is made in Northern Ireland, to an Irish person from the south, nor to serve Jameson's, made in the Republic of Ireland, to somebody from Ulster.<br />
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But, I'll leave my audience to decide which Irish Whiskey to choose when making this drink, what's important is that you make it. And have one for me, please.<br />
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In a heat resistant glass, place one or two teaspoons of raw cane sugar. This is important because without the sugar, the cream will not float. You can also use liquid cane sugar, sirop de canne, it's faster. I know the Buena Vista uses C&H cane sugar, but I prefer raw cane sugar. No, you can't use artificial sweeteners. Just suck it up and use the real stuff, please.<br />
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Pour over the sugar hot strong brewed coffee to about 3/4 full. Not instant, ever. Stir to dissolve the sugar or skip that if you used liquid.<br />
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Add a shot or two of your choice of Irish Whiskey. Yes, it needs to be Irish Whiskey, not Scotch Whisky. There's a huge difference.<br />
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Then, using an inverted spoon held just above the surface of the coffee, gently and slowly pour unsweetened double cream so that it floats on top of the coffee. If you don't have double cream, you can try single cream, but it will probably 'mix in'. Still tastes good but the presentation isn't as nice. You can also try softly whipping the cream, just a bit, so that it floats easier. Also, cream that's a couple days old works better. No, don't use canned whippy cream, that's disgusting and an affront to the Irish Coffee gods.<br />
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You drink the Irish Coffee by sipping it through the thick layer of cream. Luscious.<br />
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Now, go find a special someone or other and make one of these for them. Even if they don't have Irish eyes, they'll still be smiling, and at you.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-vwk6jHShrRg/TYIF7b4wtSI/AAAAAAAAANs/MOrPkYXkcdk/s1600/Irish-Coffee-175b.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="40" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-vwk6jHShrRg/TYIF7b4wtSI/AAAAAAAAANs/MOrPkYXkcdk/s400/Irish-Coffee-175b.jpg" width="289" /></a></div>Mmmmm... Perfect.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-40157036177273166372011-03-11T18:28:00.000+01:002011-03-11T18:28:13.648+01:00My Dukan Regime: Week Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Va2gbR8P1fc/TXpbPlCd7VI/AAAAAAAAANk/vmaSSqT3OQs/s1600/crying-diet.gif" imageanchor="1" linkindex="276" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Va2gbR8P1fc/TXpbPlCd7VI/AAAAAAAAANk/vmaSSqT3OQs/s400/crying-diet.gif" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
I kinda felt I did pretty crap this week. Basically because I over-salted everything, which means I'm retaining even more water than usual plus I didn't drink enough water (and tea) to flush the excess salt out of my system.<br />
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Plus I had to deal with a whole load of crap-o-la this last week. Major stress. I probably came closest to cheating than at any other point. So, I 'cheated' with too much salt, I suppose, but kept strictly to the regime. <br />
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On the other hand, I'm now completely over single cream in my coffee. I always drank black coffee in the States, when I worked at a place that did freshly roasted, freshly ground Green Mountain coffee. Any milk would have hid the subtle nuances of the different coffees and blends, so, it was always black. Then I moved to the UK and was only ever offered a pale cup of instant (bleeeck, instant!) So I began drinking coffee with single cream to <strike>hide</strike> improve the taste. That was then, this is now. I'm only allowed non-fat milk in my coffee which is frankly gross. I tried it several times and just decided to can the dairy completely. Now I drink fresh black coffee made in my cafétiere every morning. I'm over milk and cream. So very over it.<br />
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So, with the water retention and the salt, I was really dreading stepping on the scales this morning, however, I was pleasantly surprised with a bit of progress.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rYdkkUULKws/TXpJz55B_kI/AAAAAAAAANY/m9aIHsj4ZrQ/s1600/Ladybirds+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="277" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rYdkkUULKws/TXpJz55B_kI/AAAAAAAAANY/m9aIHsj4ZrQ/s400/Ladybirds+014.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I'm down to 90kg / 14 stone 2 pounds / 198 lbs. Yeah! I'm under 200 pounds!<br />
So, to date I've lost 8 kg / 1 stone 3.6 pounds / 17.6 lbs<br />
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I celebrated at lunch with a huge salad served with the Dukan Balsamic vinaigrette I make. Delicious! <br />
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Everyone I know has noticed a difference. Which is very encouraging to me. Plus I just feel, I don't know, lighter? Smaller? I still have the pain in my Achilles tendon, but hopefully that will be seen to soon. My doctor wants me to receive 'shock' treatments to the tendon using sound waves. I have to travel to Saint Brieuc to do this and if CPAM get their act together, it could happen in a matter of weeks.<br />
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My doctor is very happy with my progress. And so am I.<br />
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I will be getting another blood test done at the end of the month and we'll see how my blood sugar and my cholesterol are faring with the weight drop.<br />
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Tonight is my homemade ratatouille and chicken. Yummmm....<br />
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Have a great weekend and a great week!Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-52280769192513712462011-03-05T17:18:00.001+01:002011-03-05T20:39:35.659+01:00Two weeks on DukanIt's been two weeks, now, since I started my regime. I'm pleased with how it is going; my daughters say they can tell I've lost weight, one of my girlfriends said my neck and face look thinner, plus my clothes feel considerably looser. I have a leather belt which I purchased in 2004 when I was close to my thinnest, I had to get more holes put in it as I lost weight back then, and today it's on the tightest setting, but feels perfectly comfortable.<br />
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Here is the picture of my scale from yesterday morning, it would have been posted earlier, but I had misplaced the USB cord to transfer the photos over from my phone.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, as of Friday 4 March, I have lost 6 kg / 13.2 pounds. Getting down below 95 was a big landmark for me since I've not been able to get below that since 2005.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Having vegetables again was such a treat for me after 10 days without. I went crazy with the taste of haricots verts! And now I know it's never more than 24 hours before I can have my salads and steamed veggies again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm honestly having such problems getting the walks in, just because I dread the effect it will have on my Achilles tendon. I limp just about constantly now, unless I drug myself up on painkillers. I've done the painkillers before in order to cope with moving (and working) when I snapped my other Achilles tendon back in 2009. At the moment, there's not much else I can do; RSI, my Caisse Primaire (or Health Insurance) cancelled me without explanation. I cannot go further with my kiné or Physical therapy nor can I go see the specialist my doctor wants me to see because RSI didn't send me 'radiation' paperwork so I can sign up with CPAM, the Government Health Insurance scheme. Two weeks I have tried to sort this out with RSI and CPAM, they promise to call and never do. So, I suppose it means I need to take a trip to St. Brieuc soon and talk directly to BOTH horses' mouths.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>In the meantime I'll try to stop from attacking a glass of orange juice...<br />
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Let's see how I do in the next week ahead, I have some majorly huge and worrying things occurring, I hope I can stay on course, I'm doing so well so far, maybe I just need to write more, that keeps my mind off things.<br />
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<blockquote>"The tragedy of life is not that it ends so soon, but that we wait so long to begin it." ~ C.S. Lewis </blockquote>I love that quote. Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-486693524600595232011-02-26T17:27:00.000+01:002011-02-26T17:27:44.366+01:00Once A Pun A Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UUN_awrujrE/TWknWRqwzEI/AAAAAAAAANE/w536HLWxk1o/s1600/St+Patrick+snakes.gif" imageanchor="1" linkindex="137" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UUN_awrujrE/TWknWRqwzEI/AAAAAAAAANE/w536HLWxk1o/s1600/St+Patrick+snakes.gif" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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1. The fattest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.<br />
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2. I thought I saw an eye doctor on an Alaskan island, but it turned out to be an optical Aleutian .<br />
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3. She was only a whiskey maker, but he loved her still.<br />
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4. A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class, because it was a weapon of maths disruption.<br />
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5. No matter how much you push the envelope, it'll still be stationery.<br />
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6. A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.<br />
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7. A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result in Linoleum Blown apart.<br />
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8. Two silk worms had a race. They ended up in a tie.<br />
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9. A hole has been found in the nudist camp wall. The police are looking into it.<br />
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10. Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.<br />
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11. Atheism is a non-prophet organization.<br />
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12. Two hats were hanging on a hat rack in the hallway. One hat said to the other: 'You stay here; I'll go on a head.'<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Zkv1-PokrTY/TWkoEE2odLI/AAAAAAAAANM/OdAyiYmZ0Nw/s1600/Darth+Hater.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="139" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Zkv1-PokrTY/TWkoEE2odLI/AAAAAAAAANM/OdAyiYmZ0Nw/s400/Darth+Hater.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><br />
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13. I wondered why the baseball kept getting bigger. Then it hit me.<br />
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14. A sign on the lawn at a drug rehab centre said: 'Keep off the Grass.'<br />
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15. The midget fortune-teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.<br />
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16. The soldier who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.<br />
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17. A backward poet writes inverse.<br />
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18. In a democracy it's your vote that counts. In feudalism it's your count that votes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Ll5Ij-Cpkd0/TWkoDmku1tI/AAAAAAAAANI/8fdYCqmL0Bs/s1600/Arf+Vader.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="140" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Ll5Ij-Cpkd0/TWkoDmku1tI/AAAAAAAAANI/8fdYCqmL0Bs/s400/Arf+Vader.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
20. If you jumped off the bridge in Paris , you'd be in Seine .<br />
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21. A vulture boards an aeroplane, carrying two dead raccoons. The stewardess looks at him and says, 'I'm sorry, sir, only one carrion allowed per passenger.'<br />
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23. Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly, so they lit a fire in the craft. Unsurprisingly it sank, proving once again that you can't have your kayak and heat it too.<br />
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24. Two hydrogen atoms meet. One says, 'I've lost my electron.' The other says 'Are you sure?' The first replies, 'Yes, I'm positive.'<br />
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26. There was the person who sent ten puns to friends, with the hope that at least one of the puns would make them laugh. No pun in ten did.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bbpLdwR1new/TWkkBr1XBqI/AAAAAAAAAM8/dk0J6yJEesc/s1600/bad-cat-puns.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="141" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bbpLdwR1new/TWkkBr1XBqI/AAAAAAAAAM8/dk0J6yJEesc/s1600/bad-cat-puns.jpg" /></a></div>Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-22408795868278617852011-02-25T14:49:00.000+01:002011-02-25T14:49:35.959+01:00The end of week One.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mqZTcMIsPWA/TWemL-KYQ6I/AAAAAAAAAMw/boNyfLDGY08/s1600/dog+diet.png" imageanchor="1" linkindex="154" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mqZTcMIsPWA/TWemL-KYQ6I/AAAAAAAAAMw/boNyfLDGY08/s400/dog+diet.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
It's Friday. I have now been on my regime for a week. As I wrote in my post on Accountability, I am posting a picture of my scales to show how I have done for the week. Regardless of how badly it went, the picture will get posted. It's one way of keeping myself motivated to do well, exercise every day and not cheat, because I know that come Friday, I have to come clean and post my results.<br />
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This past week has been the part of the regime called 'The Attack Phase'. It is a pure protein phase, meaning, only proteins can be consumed. There is a list of 72 of these pure proteins which include: lean beef and veal, reduced fat ham and bacon, offal such as liver or kidney, lean poultry, any kind of fish, all shellfish, eggs, non-fat dairy products and tofu.<br />
You also must consume 1 1/2 Tablespoons of oat bran per day, drink a minimum of 1.5 litres of water and exercise by walking a minimum of 20 minutes each day. Salt use must be kept to an absolute minimum. I use exclusively in my cooking the naturally moist and grey Sel de Mer de Guérande, anyway, which has a stronger taste so I use much less. Just a few grains is plenty to season a dish.<br />
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I think what has been hardest has been trying to get the water requirement satisfied. I have found that I can't stand coffee without single cream, non-fat milk doesn't cut it, so, I have given that up for plain tea with no milk or sweeteners. That's helping, as I can easily drink 10 cups of tea per day. And the tea counts towards the 1.5 litre requirement.<br />
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You are allowed to use onion and garlic, tomato paste, herbs, spices, pepper, pickles, lemon, mustard and soy sauce as seasoning, so the meals haven't been boring. The oat bran is used to make a kind of galette which I eat with ham and eggs in the morning.<br />
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I'm pleased to say it's going really well for me. Therefore, without further ado, my weekly results:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zfdKrmTZzo0/TWerWb5y13I/AAAAAAAAAM4/qwH9fszkxw8/s1600/Kitten+094.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="155" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zfdKrmTZzo0/TWerWb5y13I/AAAAAAAAAM4/qwH9fszkxw8/s400/Kitten+094.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I have lost 3.25 kg / 0.5 stones / 7 pounds<br />
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I'm very happy with this as it's slow enough to be healthy and significant enough so that I don't lose heart. I'll stay on this 'Attack Phase' through Monday, then switch over to the next phase of the Dukan diet, 'Cruise Phase' where you alternate days of protein and vegetables with days of pure protein. I can tell you, I'm ready to have my veggies back! There are 28 vegetables that are allowed; potatoes, sweetcorn and other starchy vegetables don't make the list. So, all total there are 100 foods one can consume without restriction, as long as you keep to the rules: no cheating with anything not on the list, 1.5 litres of water/fluids per day, minimum 20 minute walk every day and the 1 1/2 Tablespoon of oat bran per day. I expect that my weight loss will slow when I begin eating the vegetables every other day because they are not as much a diuretic as pure protein alone. And my metabolism is like a hydrophilic sponge, if there's water around, I'll retain it!<br />
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So, I'll give myself a pat on the back for the week's results and smile!<br />
Go Team Kitty!Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-60642707325779770292011-02-24T11:43:00.004+01:002011-03-07T10:40:23.047+01:00Accountability<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wtmUWZu2yXI/TWYQ3v5eTOI/AAAAAAAAAMo/n03T9RyWYn0/s1600/accountability-savage-chickens.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="19" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wtmUWZu2yXI/TWYQ3v5eTOI/AAAAAAAAAMo/n03T9RyWYn0/s400/accountability-savage-chickens.jpg" width="387" /></a></div> <br />
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<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Webster's Unabridged Dictionary: <b>Ac·count·a·bil·i·ty</b>; <i>n.</i> The state of being accountable; liability to be called on to render an account; the obligation to bear the consequences for failure to perform as expected; accountableness. </div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">«The awful idea of <i>accountability</i>.» <i>R. Hall.</i></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Syn. -- answerability, answerableness</div><br />
I have a problem with accountability, quite often, because I want people to like me and I hate to admit failure. I'm also pig-headed enough and so stubborn as to not even <i>see </i>when I've done something completely contrary and wrong. Let me tell you right now, because it has happened to me often enough to know: nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong. However, I often fool myself into believing that the mistake is either normal for me or that it's the <i>other </i>person's fault. Until I'm far enough removed from the situation to be able to reflect and see I was indeed wrong. But by then it's often too late to make amends.<br />
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<i><b>People fail all the time; we fall down constantly. It's the picking yourself up and moving forward that defines life.</b></i><br />
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So that is what I am attempting here, to become more accountable. Mostly to myself but I figured if I put it out to a wider audience, I'd have more impetus and incentive to be truthful and to succeed with my goal. Because I hate being embarrassed almost as much as I hate to fail.<br />
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<b>What the heck am I going on about?</b><br />
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I've decided to lose weight. Rather a lot of weight. Something in the region of 35kg / 5 stones 7.5 pounds / 77 pounds. If I can achieve this, I will be the lightest I've been since I was in my 20's. It also means that my knee pain should go away, my heart health will improve, my cholesterol will be in normal range and I will no longer suffer from Type II diabetes. I've been slowly losing weight over the last two years and as a result, I've been able to significantly reduce my use of Metformin. The Doctor's thinking is that if I can get into a healthy BMI range through diet and exercise, the diabetes will indeed vanish completely. This is huge for me because when my blood sugar is out of whack, so am I.<br />
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However, I have hit a point where my weight has stayed constant and stable through normal eating and refuses to budge downwards, even with increased exercise. A plateau, you might say. I know that decreasing the <b><i>amount </i></b>of food I consume (ie: low-calorie diets) will only force my body into it's normal starvation red alert, therefore, I need to change <b><i>what </i></b>I consume.<br />
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So, last Friday, 18 February, I began The Dukan Diet. I bought the book off Amazon.fr and happily it is English-language. I am following this four-part regime until I lose all the weight I need, then will continue with the Stabilisation phase for the rest of my life. I chose this particular diet after researching dozens of different diets over the last three months. For me, it makes the most sense. It is highly restrictive in the initial two phases, but I feel I need that aspect in my life right now.<br />
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So where does accountability come in? Right here:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e8QaZysl7K0/TWYcZdIdSEI/AAAAAAAAAMs/R5dfhcjm7Do/s1600/Autres+%2526+Triskell+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="20" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e8QaZysl7K0/TWYcZdIdSEI/AAAAAAAAAMs/R5dfhcjm7Do/s400/Autres+%2526+Triskell+015.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Those are my scales and that is my weight on Friday morning, 18 February 2011. I weighed myself completely nude, I might add, so no taking off poundage for clothing allowed. (Sorry for the lousy picture, but the sole camera I now own is attached to my Sony Ericsson Mobile phone. Unless you count my SLR Canon FT, but that uses actual <i>film</i>!)<br />
<br />
Yes, it's rather shocking how much I weigh, I agree.<br />
<br />
I will be posting a photo of my scales each week until I meet my goal, or decide I've come as close as I can get and still be in good health. I have no wish to become a stick insect. I can't really see myself with a future career as a fashion model, let alone a fashionista. I am a woman, I indeed have curves, but I want gentle curves, not a drive up Mulholland or Lombard Street.<br />
<br />
Yes, part of it has to do with health, but a whole huge part of it also has to do with vanity. I love myself for who I am. I am proud of my accomplishments, most all of which were achieved in the face of enormous and overwhelming odds. My three children adore me. My close friends appreciate me for my warmth, humour and 'me-ness'. Everyone who has dined with me enjoys my food. I've been told I'm not ugly. My breath doesn't stink and I shower daily. As far as I know, I have no disgusting habits. (If I'm wrong, please DO let me know so I can work on that, ok?)<br />
<br />
So... if I'm generally 'acceptable'... why am I single, alone and without an *appropriate* mate? (By *appropriate* I mean a partner who isn't just a fifty-something child and requires mothering or someone who wants a fashion accessory to show off, bully and control. In other words, *appropriate* means a REAL honest-to-God <i><b>man</b></i>.) And why haven't I had a proper 'date' in years? I think it's to do with how men perceive me. I'm fat, frumpy and fifty-something. (Oh, yeah, I had another birthday on 1 February, so, indeed I'm now fifty-three. Truth and accountability and openness and all that.) I take pains to point out that it's not like I even <i>want </i>to date right now or even would or could; I am still in love with someone and I still have hopes and dreams and yearning that one day... I know I'm fooling myself, I know it won't happen, just, we never gave it a chance, not really, not a proper honest chance. That's the biggest regret in my life.<br />
<br />
And... it's just that... when I look into a man's eyes, it would be nice to see appreciation of the fact I am an attractive and desirable woman, instead of seeing something resembling disgust. Or pity.<br />
<br />
(Truthfully? Not every man looks at me this way. But a huge majority <i>do</i>. And it's upsetting. Plus it's a huge blow to my already fragile ego.)<br />
<br />
Will this attitude I find in most men change if I lose an enormous amount of weight? Will I suddenly turn into a Hubba-hubba combo of Angelina Jolie, Monica Bellucci and a Victoria's Secret Lingerie model? Most probably not. I'm not so facile to believe it will. But at least at that point in time I can hold my head high, know I've done all I can and realise that it's not <i>me </i>at fault here, I am actually 'worthy of admiration' on many levels and all this time I've simply been looking in the wrong eyes, yes, all along, my entire life.<br />
<br />
So, stay tuned for weekly updates on my progress. Because there WILL be progress, of that I am certain.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-52182025453069589972011-02-14T19:05:00.001+01:002011-06-06T23:54:15.806+02:00A Love Letter Unread.<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t_oWxhqEbLU/TVlSIPP5irI/AAAAAAAAAMI/8ENoJPy04nk/s1600/valentines_day.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="87" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t_oWxhqEbLU/TVlSIPP5irI/AAAAAAAAAMI/8ENoJPy04nk/s400/valentines_day.jpg" width="351" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs. </span></i></blockquote><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Being purged, a fire sparkling in lovers' eyes. </span></i></blockquote><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Being vexed, a sea nourished with lovers' tears. </span></i></blockquote><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What is it else? A madness most discreet, </span></i></blockquote><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A choking gall and a preserving sweet."</span></i></blockquote><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~ William Shakespeare ~</span></i> </blockquote></div>Valentine's Day is great when you are in a stable, loving relationship. Well, even just <b>some </b>kind of relationship where the partner is clued in enough to be aware they are supposed to DO something on that date. Or if you happen to be pretty, popular or at least cool or <i>worthy </i>enough to receive cards, gifts, chocolates... flowers. Receive them on the day just for breathing and being alive. Because, heh, you're cool... and popular people get things. Hollywood will verify this.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies." ~ Aristotle ~ </span></i></blockquote></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YglNYNC0mOk/TVlY5NMNpcI/AAAAAAAAAMc/ByDbVbJoB3w/s1600/valentines-day-rome.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="88" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YglNYNC0mOk/TVlY5NMNpcI/AAAAAAAAAMc/ByDbVbJoB3w/s320/valentines-day-rome.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Well, I hate Valentine's Day. Because I have never BEEN cool, popular or attractive, especially while in Grade School. I was shy, meek and very mousey, terrified of others my own age, bullied constantly, my only real friends being books and the teachers who allowed me to stay in during recess, with the pretence of allowing me to help file or do bulletin boards. Children can be so very cruel and being newly arrived from the Deep South, my Californian peers rolled with laughter whenever I opened my mouth to speak. So, I tended not to try speaking out loud but communicated through comic strips and art projects instead of oral reports. My teachers at the time understood and allowed this. For that I'll be forever grateful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clzTAMqRH4Q/TVlYs7zCFHI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/mxAhm8-wj6E/s1600/vintage_valentine-19.gif" imageanchor="1" linkindex="89" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clzTAMqRH4Q/TVlYs7zCFHI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/mxAhm8-wj6E/s320/vintage_valentine-19.gif" width="232" /></a></div>Valentine's Day cards HAD to be given to each child, it was a rule. So at the end of the day your little 'Mail Box' that sat on your desk contained one small valentine in a small white envelope from each child in the class. You could be assured of this. It was 'safe'. Because I'd been forced to give the horrid Deborah a Valentine I knew she had to give me one as well. Deborah was the nasty girl who always tripped me in the girl's room then gave my forearm an Indian burn as I was sprawled across the tiles. I never was able to suss out why she hated me so very much. But she always got the ugly elephant Valentine from me. Always.<br />
<br />
High school Valentines were given between my girlfriends and myself, I can't ever remember receiving an actual Valentine from an actual boy. A boy who was two years older than I, sent me a soppy love letter once. I remember it made me feel rather embarrassed since it spoke of things and feelings and wants and needs that I hadn't yet a clue about. I did not share his feelings. He lost interest the next week.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OKQ4uSJ_b80/TVlYwYaUjnI/AAAAAAAAAMU/rbc5SwqyBcc/s1600/valentines_day_card_101.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="90" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OKQ4uSJ_b80/TVlYwYaUjnI/AAAAAAAAAMU/rbc5SwqyBcc/s320/valentines_day_card_101.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I went on a first date on Valentine's Day, quite by accident, with the man who became my first husband. I had finished work and went to a local restaurant to meet my housemate for a drink. She showed up and then he did as well a bit later. How awkward. He just sat there blathering away and wouldn't leave. I went to the loo and came back to find she had bailed on me and gone home, so, there I was stuck with him. I was too polite, I should have just bailed myself. I remember him proposing the following year on the same day with the aside that this was probably the best offer I'd ever get, so, marrying him was really rather an honour for me.<br />
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I can laugh now, but at the time, my self-esteem was nil... and I accepted. We were married Valentine's Day 1987. And he left in 1993, taking our son with him. Well, physically he left in 1993, mentally he'd left me years before.<br />
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Husband Mach 2? Let's just say he even forgot my 40th birthday... and I was NINE months pregnant with our first child at the time... so, no, Valentine's Day was never what you'd call significant. Unless I reminded him. And what fun is that? <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Now this isn't supposed to be a pity party, ok? It might seem like it's headed that way but it's not. I'm just underlining how rotten the date 14th February actually IS for me.</span></b><br />
<br />
It rather sucks, up to now. <br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><blockquote>"It's not <i><b>what </b></i>you have in your life, but <i><b>who </b></i>you have in your life that counts."</blockquote></div>The wonderful thing about being an adult human, is that you can decide that you'll do something different. I'm not bound to hibernation or migration and if I decide that I am going to change, well I can! I don't NEED to wait for evolution to wind it's way around. I can just think, "Right, this is how I will now do this." Then do it. Simple.<br />
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<blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"The important thing, is to be able at any moment to sacrifice what we are... for what we could become." ~ French critic Charles Du Bos ~</span></i></blockquote><br />
So, I decided that's how I'll look at Valentine's day from now on.<br />
<br />
Differently.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yEEs-S2QzGk/TVlY0cEEpAI/AAAAAAAAAMY/CKaR2EB8NBg/s1600/valentines-day-candies.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="91" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yEEs-S2QzGk/TVlY0cEEpAI/AAAAAAAAAMY/CKaR2EB8NBg/s320/valentines-day-candies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Today is a non-sectarian day to tell people whom you care about that you are happy they are in your life. I mean, you can do that at Christmas, but there's the whole religion thing that wraps around it which people can get stuffy or silly about. So today can be a day that is for everyone regardless of religious flavour. Or even non-flavour.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination, full of hope." ~ Maya Angelou ~</span></i></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;">I want to tell those who mean so much to me that I appreciate them. I want to say that you have made a difference in my life. That I am where I am today because of your love and support. And I know that I would not be in this safe and happy place had you not been there to help me through so much. Thank you, you mean the world to me.</div><blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"Love is strong yet delicate. It can be broken. To truly love is to understand this. To be in love is to respect this." ~ Stephen Packer ~</span></i></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6c7CdTI93wc/TVlh0VhW8qI/AAAAAAAAAMk/l-DgErz29Ac/s1600/valentine2.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="92" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6c7CdTI93wc/TVlh0VhW8qI/AAAAAAAAAMk/l-DgErz29Ac/s320/valentine2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">To the person I adore and cherish, who took me from a most horrid fate ahead of me and restored me to the whole person I had lost along the way, thank you. I will always and forever love you. I will always and forever be grateful for your love, care and attention. For everything you did for me and for us. I can never repay your kindness, but I hope, one future date, you will allow me to try. I hope you know that you will always and forever own my heart. The small sure flame will eternally and <span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">unremittingly </span></span>burn; secret, guarded, certain. Please know that and remember. You will always and forever be The One.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hug them, kiss them and tell them that you love them. Don't miss the chances that life is giving you to spend with people you love. There are no rewinds.</span></i></blockquote></div><div style="text-align: left;">I know time and space and circumstances now separate us. I know that you have someone else now and that this outpouring of love I have for you will never be read, still, I needed to put it out there, to write it down and make it real, at least for me. If I could whisper in your ear, I would ask you to come back to me. I would ask you to give us another chance, but I know it's too late. That regret will ever lay heavy upon my heart.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A quiet thought, a silent tear, a constant wish that you were here. Words are few but thoughts are deep, memories of you, I'll always keep.</span></i></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PWGpizh9e9s/TVla7qrtRnI/AAAAAAAAAMg/EUzJ2GMonGo/s1600/red+rose+on+b%2526w+wood.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="93" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PWGpizh9e9s/TVla7qrtRnI/AAAAAAAAAMg/EUzJ2GMonGo/s320/red+rose+on+b%2526w+wood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote><i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"A successful relationship requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. Always with the same person, but deeper and deeper every time. Each time on a whole new level you together open in love and discover the truth of your beloved anew. There is no limit to the beauty of your beloved. If you think you've reached the end, stop generalising.</i>"</blockquote><div style="text-align: left;">Some morning, when I've met you in that sacred in-between place where we still laugh and smile at each other, that dreamworld of mine you inhabit, where there is sunshine glinting off the water, where there is peace and quiet, birdsong from the shore and long loving glances between us. I will look into those beautiful blue eyes again, face-to-face, the eyes I could swim in forever, happy, safe and secure. And you will smile, and my heart again will thrill. And that some morning, please, before you lean over to kiss her awake, the one you love now, think of me just the once. Think of me in the long pink dress, forever now hidden away from view and remember me with my hair falling down around. Remember the love we shared, the life we planned, our future together. Make peace with that and with me, please. Then, think of me just the once... and smile.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Because I will forever be thinking of you. </div></div></div></div></div>Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-78897474718643993442011-01-23T04:59:00.002+01:002011-01-23T08:31:24.097+01:00My House of Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TTunAsDNCPI/AAAAAAAAAMA/3ViXCUK5mEE/s1600/alice2.gif" imageanchor="1" linkindex="17" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TTunAsDNCPI/AAAAAAAAAMA/3ViXCUK5mEE/s320/alice2.gif" width="240" /></a></div><br />
If it was just one thing to deal with, I could cope, as I cope every day of my life. As millions of people worldwide cope with their own day-to-day difficulties.<br />
<br />
In fact, two things to deal with are fine, even three, several, many. <i>I can difficulty multi-task.</i><br />
<br />
But.... <br />
When it is dealing with this stupid constant pain in my knee, which I have had since my compound tib-fib fracture in March 1993... well, ok. I am used to that pain, it is rather like 'white noise' and background, I have a coping strategy for that and most of the time I even forget it's there.<br />
<br />
But....<br />
When it is also dealing with the left hand side Achilles tendon pain, that my kinétherapist has now declared an 'affliction longe durée' because it is not getting any better. She doesn't understand why there has been absolutely no improvement other than possibly it's caused by a physiological malfunction and in that case, it's most likely inoperable. Unless the tendon snaps. THEN it can be fixed. It is painful to walk and it is excruciating to have someone press on it.<br />
<br />
But.....<br />
When is also dealing with 'Tennis Elbow' that makes it nearly impossible to pick up a cup of tea.<br />
<br />
But.....<br />
When it is also dealing with running out of fioul because I could only afford 250 litres and I can't get more for another two weeks. I've applied for help through Assistance Sociale but that usually takes two months to come through. In the meantime, I have plugged in the oil-fired heaters and turned on the electric hot water heater for the shower. Tremendously costly, but, rather like the poor man's shoes: all I can do.<br />
<br />
But.....<br />
When it is also getting the third degree grilling at Restos du Coeur because I'm not receiving a Pension Alimentaire from my ex-husband and the 'biological' father of my daughters. "Surely he sends you something, Madame? They are, after all, his children, yes?" "They are, but no, he does not." "He must help somehow... does he pay for their clothing? School trips? Canteen tickets?" It's now when I wish I knew how to say in French, 'He pays for bugger all, frankly.' I make a mental note to ask my eldest later. Look, folks, I have no job, no income, no money, no spousal support, no child support, nada. It's just me and RSA until I can 'create' some job out of thin air, a tuppence, a satsuma and a great idea. Until then, may I please be allowed some food for the children and myself? Pretty please? Thank you.<br />
<br />
But....<br />
When it is also my 12-year old being stopped by one of the advisers from her Martinique trip on the way back from our shopping trip at LeClerc. Then after a few pleasantries, and the woman saying, "Don't forget to stay in touch, dear." And my Spidey senses start tingling. And my daughter turns to me, quite matter-of-frankly as we continue on down the street, and whispers, "<i>I think not, she's a lesbian, you see.</i>"<br />
<br />
But....<br />
When it is also having all but two electrical sockets now defunct so we have extension cords trailing all over the place. I have run through four packs of 10 amp fuses that go into the wall, I can't afford to buy any more. The electrician came to look, but, it needs a complete re-wire and that can't happen for a few weeks or months. Nothing happens here in France overnight, save strikes.<br />
<br />
But....<br />
When it is also coming out of your house and running smack dab into someone you did not want to run into...<br />
<br />
Well, that was the final straw. Too many things came at me all at once. Actually more than I've gone into here, but some things are too difficult, raw, painful and personal to name, let alone discuss. Besides, even <i>*I* </i>am getting bored with this rant.<br />
<br />
Heaven knows how you've sat through it.<br />
<br />
My Doctor said there is no reason to suffer unnecessarily, I am not Christ on the cross atoning for the World's Sins. I agree. (Besides, I've never been a great Calvinist supporter.) I need to be here and present, I need to function for my children and for myself. I cannot spend hours of the day crying.<br />
<br />
So, I am starting on anti-depressants again. These are different than the ones I was on before but are still an SSRI. Yes, they are a crutch. But I need a crutch, I'm broken. I need help to heal, to come to terms with my life situation, to find a way forward. My Doctor and I agreed to try this for a few months, see if I can't get over this difficult patch. So, Seroplex, 10mg, every night. Sadly, it has the same side effects as my last medication, notably 'Anorgasmia' and decreased libido. At least 'possible huge weight gain' isn't noted as common. I'll still keep a close eye on my weight, as that was the most depressing thing about taking anti-depressants last time: gaining something like 50 kg.<br />
<br />
Because of my previous long-term use of Paroxetine, I have Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction which may never go away unless treated. At least I can hang a name on it now, and not just think it is all my fault because I was wired wrong. Or was caused by a lack of desire, it wasn't.<br />
<br />
But anyway, the side effects aren't anything to concern me right now. I'm not looking forward to the 'Brain Zaps' that will come with discontinuing use. But then, at least I am aware of what's to come, I already know what to expect and I can plan for that future event.<br />
<br />
I think I'll try making my emotional house out of something more substantial than cards or straw. I'm thinking fruitcake might have merit as a building material. At least, the American version. It's not like anyone ever eats it, is it?Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-86799057206448437112011-01-13T20:05:00.000+01:002011-01-13T20:05:37.913+01:00Lamb Moussaka memories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9HCQSz_DI/AAAAAAAAALw/zNfY780Pqf8/s1600/MOUSSAKA240x240.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="115" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9HCQSz_DI/AAAAAAAAALw/zNfY780Pqf8/s200/MOUSSAKA240x240.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I first tasted Moussaka in Greece when I was there on holiday back in '82 or '83. It was light, not greasy and with the very first bite caused an eruption of flavours to burst forth in my mouth. I was hooked. I spent the rest of the two week holiday, on the island of Skiathos, trying Moussaka at every opportunity. Since then, I have had fabulous renditions and dire attempts. I also make it myself, and that's my favourite. I make a vegetarian version with tofu and lentils and that is really delicious. But I adore lamb and when I can get a hold of ground or minced lamb, I will invariably make the recipe I am sharing with you today.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9InxObihI/AAAAAAAAAL8/F44btcaKjDw/s1600/971788-Taverna_Oneros-Athens.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="116" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9InxObihI/AAAAAAAAAL8/F44btcaKjDw/s1600/971788-Taverna_Oneros-Athens.jpg" /></a></div>Still, I would <i>love </i>to go back to that tiny Taverna in Athens just down from the Parthenon and eat that particular Moussaka again and all that went along with it. The holiday, the solitude, the bright sunshine and the feeling of walking around in history... I'd just switch out my travelling companion for a certain man with strong arms, loving and gentle hands, a beguiling smile and eyes like a storm on the Aegean Sea... sigh.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9HnYp_knI/AAAAAAAAAL0/55WGJgDUOgw/s1600/walk+up+to+acropolis.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="117" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9HnYp_knI/AAAAAAAAAL0/55WGJgDUOgw/s320/walk+up+to+acropolis.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>Because food is more than just a flavour, it's a memory as well. Mine includes my legs feeling sunburned from the beach and tired from walking up to the Acropolis, the sharp resin taste of a cold Retsina wine and the salad we ate: creamy feta, Kalamata olives, fresh oregano and a red-wine vinaigrette mixed with chunks of cucumbers (hold the tomatoes, thanks) which complimented the rich main dish. The Taverna was cool inside and it was fun to look out and people watch; the tourists and the locals intermingling on the busy pedestrian passage.<br />
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The walk up to the Acropolis is worth it, even if it is tremendously tiring, because you are walking through all these little alleys and passageways (like the one to the left) with the backs of the houses actually carved into the rock face behind it: these houses are part of Mount Olympus in a very real sense.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9HrmGE76I/AAAAAAAAAL4/EBwNzF54Fbk/s1600/Greek+woman+outside+home.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="118" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TS9HrmGE76I/AAAAAAAAAL4/EBwNzF54Fbk/s320/Greek+woman+outside+home.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>What struck me most about Athens, especially the older bit of the city on the walk up to the Acropolis, were the old ladies dressed in black sitting in their whitewashed doorways with their cats. They don't seem to pay attention to the hundreds of people filing past their homes, invading their personal space, they seemed preoccupied to me, their thoughts elsewhere.<br />
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In their minds possibly preparing meals for their menfolk who left to go to war and never returned... as they have sat as such in the same doorways for millennia.<br />
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Generations of women who gave up their fathers, their sons and their brothers to a war they didn't understand.<br />
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Gave up their husbands, their life companions to some cause and now all that remained were their memories, their dreams and the ubiquitous cats. Sitting in the sunshine, their hands busy with their Rosary beads, their bright eyes seeing a scene I could not. I found that so sad. So incredibly sad.<br />
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This particular Moussaka recipe isn't too difficult to prepare, it just needs a lot of preparation so allow at least an hour for that. You put together five parts, similar to my lasagne: fried or grilled egglant slices, a white sauce, a meaty red sauce, fresh breadcrumbs and cheese<br />
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<b>The Eggplant part</b><br />
Wash 3 Medium eggplants, slice 2/3"/4cm thick, salt and let drain for 1/2 hour while you prepare the white sauce and start the red sauce. Then dry eggplant and shake in a bag with flour and a good grind of black pepper. Brown in a bit of hot olive oil. Be careful with the amount of oil, and use only enough to brown a few slices at a time. The eggplant is like a gready sponge and will absorb an amazing amount of oil if you let it, and greasy Moussaka is gross. Drain the eggplant and reserve. Or, you can grill the eggplant without flouring it until it is slightly brown, which is how I tend to do it now. (Or even get frozen, grilled eggplant slices, easiest!) <br />
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<b>The White Sauce part</b><br />
In a saucepan over medium heat mix together:<br />
6 Tbl Butter <br />
6 Tbl flour <br />
Whisk for a couple minutes until well blended, add:<br />
750 ml (3 cups) milk <br />
Gently bring to a boil, stirring, and simmer couple minutes. Whisk a cup or so of this mixture into:<br />
3 eggs, well beaten. Whisk the egg mixture back into the white sauce and bring up to a very gentle simmer, whisking just until thick. Do not boil, or sauce will scramble. <br />
Add:<br />
Good grating of nutmeg <br />
dash Tabasco Sauce<br />
Let White Sauce cool. It should be quite thick. Note that the white sauce can be prepared a day ahead of time, covered and refrigerated.<br />
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<b>The Red Sauce part</b><br />
Brown well together in heavy frying pan:<br />
2 Tbl olive oil <br />
500g ground lamb.<br />
Drain grease. Add:<br />
1 large onion, chopped <br />
3 cloves garlic, chopped<br />
Sauté around until the onion is limp. Add:<br />
250ml can tomato sauce <br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon <br />
tsp dried leaf oregano <br />
Tbl chopped parsley <br />
Tbl chopped mint <br />
bit of salt and pepper<br />
Simmer gently until quite thick. The red sauce can be prepared well ahead of time, and keeps well refrigerated or you can freeze it.<br />
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<b>Breadcrumbs and Cheese part.</b><br />
You will also need 250g dry bread crumbs. Make fresh by blitzing in a food processor then spread out on a baking tray and leave in a slow oven, stirring occasionally.<br />
Also 500g grated Mozzarella cheese and 150g or so of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.<br />
<br />
To assemble the Moussaka<br />
You need a either good sized casserole with a cover or a lasagne dish you can cover with aluminium foil. Put about 1/3 of the eggplant on the bottom in a solid layer. Trim eggplant to fit. Spread 1/2 of the red sauce on top. Spread 1/3 of white sauce over red. Sprinkle with 1/2 of the cheese, 1/3 of the crumbs. Repeat this set of layers. Then put in a layer of the rest of the eggplant, the rest of the white sauce and cover with the rest of the crumbs. Garnish top with a sprinkle of ground red chile or paprika and a small handful of chopped parsley. Cover, and bake at 350°F/160°C for an hour, uncover and bake until browned on top and bubbly. Serve with a green salad, good bread and a bottle of light red wine. Greek Retsina wine is quite wonderful with this.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-29003410546214223922011-01-03T14:22:00.000+01:002011-01-03T14:22:55.349+01:00La Rentrée: well, one down, one to go.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSGes4ndRnI/AAAAAAAAALE/ZMIaTrkkxPg/s1600/rentree-grasse-matinee.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="111" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSGes4ndRnI/AAAAAAAAALE/ZMIaTrkkxPg/s320/rentree-grasse-matinee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Little one started back this morning. It's particularly tough getting up, dressed and petite déjeunered when it's still pitch black outside.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSHGO2CUhZI/AAAAAAAAALQ/aSyHw59ph0k/s1600/Video+call+snapshot+11nnnn.png" imageanchor="1" linkindex="112" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSHGO2CUhZI/AAAAAAAAALQ/aSyHw59ph0k/s1600/Video+call+snapshot+11nnnn.png" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSHMzVJSOvI/AAAAAAAAALU/fUmbMGIxOTk/s1600/Video+call+snapshot+241.png" imageanchor="1" linkindex="113" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSHMzVJSOvI/AAAAAAAAALU/fUmbMGIxOTk/s1600/Video+call+snapshot+241.png" /></a></div>She is rather excited since tomorrow is her eleventh birthday. It amazes me how the year has flown past. She is still undecided as to the cake I'm to make for the event. And I got a firm "Non" to my idea of Birthday Cupcakes for the class. It seems only Chupa-Chups will do. Cupcakes are better but are apparently still an unknown entity to most French children around these parts. Philistines.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSGe8h1-uhI/AAAAAAAAALI/iUAGBjM-Ahc/s1600/07rentree.jpg" imageanchor="1" linkindex="114" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TSGe8h1-uhI/AAAAAAAAALI/iUAGBjM-Ahc/s320/07rentree.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Big one goes back tomorrow. We have yet to locate her French textbook so devoirs can be finished completely. She is currently rooting around in various hiding places.<br />
"Honey? Why did you need to hide it?"<br />
A long careful consideration later...<br />
"I don't know."<br />
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I'm honestly going to miss their company come tomorrow. I never thought I'd admit that, but, I'll feel lonely without their little quarrelling, noisy, curious, enchanting selves about the house.Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7429614699176161846.post-20392691379065255062011-01-01T11:11:00.002+01:002011-01-02T08:43:57.776+01:00A minute in history<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TR-4OZ6Em1I/AAAAAAAAALA/SqYqW9myMKU/s1600/clock-11-11.gif" imageanchor="1" linkindex="19" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ee1l29PWQT4/TR-4OZ6Em1I/AAAAAAAAALA/SqYqW9myMKU/s320/clock-11-11.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="bigcap">T</span>his is the beginning of a new day.<br />
I can waste it or use it for good.<br />
What I do today is important because I am exchanging a day of my life for it.<br />
When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever,<br />
leaving in its place something I have traded for it.<br />
I want it to be a gain, not a loss;<br />
good, not evil;<br />
success, not failure —<br />
in order that I shall not regret the price I paid for it today.</div>Kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17522607782000045577noreply@blogger.com4